The Big Dreaming by Michael Rosen & Daniel Egnéus

As a child in Canada, my early years were full of lessons about hibernating animals and bears getting ready for winter. I was fascinated by their ability to sleep for such a long time. I knew where to spot them in the autumn as they ate their fill and to be especially wary of them in spring when they were thin and hungry. I would have absolutely adored The Big Dreaming – Michael Rosen’s hope-filled story of friendship, encouragement, determination and finding comfort in our dreams.

It’s autumn. Big Bear and Little Bear are preparing for the arrival of the Cold and their Big Sleep. But Little Bear is worried – what if he runs out of dreams? He takes matters into his own paws and sets off on an adventure to look for some spare dreams. Each animal he meets offers him one of theirs – dreams of happiness, dreams of coming home safe, dreams of always having hope. Little Bear carries these important messages with him as he makes his way home through the snow just in time for the Big Dreaming.

Michael Rosen’s gentle words with a charming refrain will completely engage young readers while Daniel Egnéus’s soft illustrations will pull children even deeper into this gorgeous story. There couldn’t be a more perfect team to create this special book.

“We’re getting ready for the Big Dreaming, we’re getting ready for the Sleep. Do you have any spare dreams, for when we sleep, deep, deep?”

The characters of the bouncy squirrel, the attentive rabbit and majestic wolf are so adorable but also incredibly wise. Children will empathise with each animal as they share lessons they’ve learned about finding enjoyment in simple things, being lost and feeling scared.

The Big Dreaming is a story to share again and again. Young readers are sure to want to share their dreams and offer them to their friends. Early Years and Key Stage One classes will find rich discussion within its pages as they get ready for winter together.

Thank you to Bloomsbury and Grace Ball for a copy of this stunning book!

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